Cocker Spaniel vs West Highland White Terrier

Sporting · Small vs Terrier · Small

Quick take
  • Cocker Spaniel is the larger breed at 25–30 lbs (males) vs 15–20 lbs for the West Highland White Terrier.
  • The West Highland White Terrier typically lives longer (13–15 years).
  • The West Highland White Terrier sheds less.
  • The Cocker Spaniel is generally more trainable.

Side-by-side traits

TraitCocker SpanielWest Highland White Terrier
Group
SportingTerrier
Size
SmallSmall
Origin
USAScotland
Height (male)
14.5–15.5"11"
Height (female)
13.5–14.5"10"
Weight (male)
25–30 lbs15–20 lbs
Weight (female)
20–25 lbs15–20 lbs
Lifespan
Average expected lifespan.
10–14 years13–15 years
Energy level
Daily activity needs.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Trainability
How quickly the breed learns commands.
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Intelligence
Problem-solving ability.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Exercise needs
Daily physical activity required.
Moderate (3/5)Moderate (3/5)
Shedding
Lower = less hair around your home.
Moderate (3/5)Low (2/5)
Grooming effort
Brushing, bathing, professional grooming.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Drooling
Lower = drier face and furniture.
Low (2/5)Very Low (1/5)
Barking
How vocal the breed is.
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Good with kids
Very High (5/5)High (4/5)
Good with other dogs
High (4/5)Moderate (3/5)
Good with strangers
High (4/5)High (4/5)
Protectiveness
Watchdog tendencies.
Low (2/5)Moderate (3/5)
Adaptability
Apartment / new environment tolerance.
High (4/5)Very High (5/5)
Coat length
longwirehaired
Hypoallergenic
Lower-shedding, less dander.
NoYes
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About the Cocker Spaniel

The Cocker Spaniel is a gentle, smart, happy gundog — Disney's Lady, with the gorgeous flowing coat and merry tail. Originally from USA, this small sporting breed typically weighs 25–30 lbs and lives 10–14 years. Breeders describe them as gentle, smart, happy.

About the West Highland White Terrier

The West Highland White Terrier is a loyal, happy, entertaining little terrier — the iconic Cesar dog food face with a snowy coat. Originally from Scotland, this small terrier breed typically weighs 15–20 lbs and lives 13–15 years. Breeders describe them as loyal, happy, entertaining.

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Cocker Spaniel health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Eye conditions
  • Ear infections
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Heart disease

West Highland White Terrier health

Common health concerns reported in this breed:

  • Skin allergies
  • Hip dysplasia
  • Cataracts
  • Liver disease